Event chair Betty Berchelmann said she was delighted with the turnout and that the work done by Green Spaces is important to help preserve the green canopy in San Antonio.

The gala is the annual fundraiser that helps Green Spaces Alliance of South Texas pay for the costs associated with preservation of parcels of land to protect the Edwards Aquifer and to foster community gardens in San Antonio through community outreach, educational programs and a community garden network. Last year's gala raised more than $60,000.

“Any time we have a fundraiser like this, it's basically to help keep our doors open,” said Berchelmann, who also serves as secretary of the board for Green Spaces Alliance.

Besides protecting San Antonio's natural beauty, Berchelmann said the work the organization does is important for posterity.

“Part of it is making sure that children hopefully have an appreciation for nature. So many kids are such urban dwellers these days — they don't get out to the country much. Having them have that exposure though learning and hands-on experience is really important, too.”